Emotionally Preparing Your Children for Back-to-School Season

Between sheltering-in-place, online learning and time away from friends, many children will need a little extra support as they head back to school this fall.

Consider these tips from the experts at KinderCare to help you emotionally prepare your children to return to school with confidence, optimism and excitement.

Address your feelings (and theirs)

Children often take cues about how to react from their parents. Think about what it takes for you to feel calm and prepared (or even excited) for the start of a new school year. That could mean talking with your child's teacher or school about the safety precautions they're taking so you can feel more at ease, taking a few minutes to establish a morning routine or stepping away from news that makes you anxious. Focus instead on the positive aspects of school, like the opportunity your child will have to learn, make friends, interact with others and grow into his or her own person.

"Children need a sense of belonging, and school provides an important connection point for them," said Dr. Elanna Yalow, chief academic officer for KinderCare Learning Centers. "Nothing builds a sense of community like personal contact with friends and teachers. That connection is essential in supporting a child's growth and development."

Set expectations about what to expect before the first day

Some children may feel ready to go and eager to explore, while others can be more reserved or even fearful of new places, faces and routines. When your child knows what to expect, it can go a long way in soothing any worries he or she may have about leaving home and going to school.

It's also important to respect your child's growing independence and empower him or her to help others. As you explain safety precautions like covering the mouth when sneezing or coughing, or proper hand washing, emphasize how your child's actions can help keep family, friends and teachers safe.

"Children may already be apprehensive about returning to school, let alone trying to cope with new safety practices," said Dr. Joelle Simpson, a pediatric emergency medicine physician and medical director for emergency preparedness at Children's National Hospital. "Explaining these precautions ahead of time can help your children see them as part of the school day routine instead of something to fear. For parents, remember that while children can get sick from this virus, it occurs less frequently than in adults and at lower rates than the flu."

Celebrate the start of a new school year

Try to plan a special activity or some extra family time the week before school starts and encourage your child to participate in the planning.

"Remember, children didn't have time for a clean break and celebration at the end of the last school year, and this can help your child mentally adjust to a new routine and schedule," Yalow said.

Let your child know how proud you are to see him or her growing up, learning how to be a good friend and exploring and learning about the world. Be sure to talk with your child each school day - what was learned, funny things friends said, the things that seem little but are important to your child.

For more tips about how to help your child prepare for the new school year, visit kindercare.com.